May 11, 2008

Dear Common Dreamer,

Growing up, whenever a family situation got a little sticky, my father used to ask, "Are you going to be part of the problem? Or part of the solution?"

He didn't invent the phrase. But he loved to repeat it.

I started CommonDreams.org 10 years ago because I wanted to be part of the solution.

More important, I wanted everyone - all of us - to feel as though we were working together for the common good. And I knew that in order to be part of the solution, we'd need more than a passion for our common dreams.

We'd need information. We'd need inspiration. We'd need to organize around the progressive issues that we all care so passionately about.

Thanks to hundreds of thousands of progressives like you, CommonDreams.org has created a thriving online community. A community site you can rely on, 365 days/year, for the best mix of headline news and progressive opinions.

Now, once again, it's our turn to rely on you - and we especially need your help now. Why? Because if you contribute to our second-quarter fundraiser, a generous (and anonymous, by request) donor will match your contribution. (You can also donate using our print and mail form).

Will you help us take advantage of this generous offer before it runs out?

As I've grown a little older, I've come to realize that there will always be problems that need solving, and that the solutions may never be as crystal clear or cut and dried as we'd like.

That realization hasn't weakened my resolve. I still believe we can all make a difference.

Like you, I'm hopeful that the November elections will bring new problem-solvers to the table. But I'm also realistic. No matter who moves into the White House, we have our work cut out for us.

How do we continue to promote progressive policies that serve the public good, not just the wealthy, the elite, the corporations?

We keep the pressure on. We speak out. We organize at the grassroots level.

And we make darned sure we're part of the solution.

It's up to us. You and me.

Please make your secure, tax-deductible online donation today - and watch it double! Or, if you'd rather, you can print this form and mail your contribution.